Many years ago, it was a relatively safe mission, but it has turned into a risky move that threatens the turtles' existence.

Female turtles have become casualties from treading into developed areas that once were safe nesting habitats. Roads, vehicles and other factors threaten the survival of many species of turtles.

From land to sea around the world, turtles and tortoises have had a challenging time surviving, which is why many conservation groups, like the Sea Turtle Conservancy and the Turtle Survival Alliance, are committed to protecting turtles and educating the world to prevent the reptiles from becoming extinct.

In some parts of the world, poaching and international illegal trade have had a huge impact on the population of turtles and tortoises.

"Radiated tortoises is now considered critically endangered. It is of high-risk extinction," said Rick Hudson, president of the Turtle Survival Alliance, citing not only the pet trade aspect, but also the food markets in southern Madagascar.

In recent years, the number of turtle species that has been added to the World Conservation Union red list as endangered has more than doubled, and it's expected to grow as the red-listing process incorporates species in Africa and South America.

Preventing extinction will not happen overnight, but conservation groups are dedicated to the programs they hope will educate the planet to the immediate crisis and long-term global effects.

An Iranian military observation aircraft flew within 50 yards of an armed U.S. Navy helicopter over the Persian Gulf this month, sparking concern that top Iranian commanders might not be in full control of local forces, CNN has learned.